A noticeably growing number of people is switching to electrically powered driving – but why are so many people switching to electric, is it really that much more economical, and what should you look for when buying an electric car? Driving an electric car is better for the environment, as it reduces CO2 emissions. In addition, electric cars are cleaner and quieter to drive. Moreover, choosing an electric car is becoming increasingly financially interesting.
How economical is an electric car?
Sure, electric cars are still quite costly to buy. But when determining whether it is more economical to drive an electric car or a fossil fuel-powered one, there is more to keep in mind than purchase price. After all, electricity is cheaper than fossil fuel. Maintenance costs are lower for an electronic car as there are fewer parts in an electric car that are susceptible to wear. In addition, road and purchase tax are lower for an electric car. But there is more.
When leasing an electric company car, you are liable for substantially less additional tax than if you were leasing a fossil fuel car. In addition, business owners are better off as they can rely on an environmental investment tax deduction, resulting in a total deduction of 36% of the investment costs needed both to purchase and maintain the car.
Electric driving combined with solar panels
More and more people are using, or are considering, solar panels. A substantial investment with solid returns – and even profits – in the long term. On average, the cost-recovery time for solar panels is 7.5 years. Everything generated after that is profit.
One major advantage of combining electric driving and solar panels is the ability to charge your car via your panels – making the most of your solar panels and lowering the cost-recovery period even further.
The available variety in solar panels is enormous, so make sure to get informed. Currently available bifacial solar models, for example, let you capture even more sunlight and therefore generate even more electricity. These transparent panels harvest sunlight on both sides, and should therefore be installed in such a position as to be able to capture sunlight from as many angles as possible.
Charging your electric car at home
If you have your own drive or parking space, consider buying a charging station. Charging your car at home is cheaper than a publicly accessible charging post. Combine that with using solar panels, and you can top up your electric car (almost) for free!
Alfen charging stations are a popular choice. These stations use dynamic load balancing to regulate charging power. The charging stations makes sure that all equipment remains in operation while charging the car itself with maximum power. The charging station takes into account maximum charge capacity, the main fuse, and other electrical appliance on the same fuse group – letting you safely use other electrical devices while charging your car.
In short, switching to electric driving can be very financially interesting!
